Last cruise ship of the summer arrives in Maiden City

The final cruise call of summer 2002 arrived this morning at Queen's Quay in Londonderry.

The Kristina Regina, owned by Finish Company, Kristina Cruises, will visit the city on its maiden call to Northern Ireland, en route to South Africa where the vessel will have its home for the winter season.

The north west has already welcomed eight vessels this summer, including the first visit by larger vessels such as the Crystal Symphony and the Royal Princess, as well as the prestigious vessel, The World.

Commenting on the summer season, Aideen Corr, Cruise Development Officer, said: “This season brought five new cruise companies into the north west. This is an important development for the region as it continues to bring new customers and help raise our profile as a successful cruise destination.

“The response has been positive to this year’s cruise season, in particular, from the local community in Greencastle who welcomed some of the larger vessels to the region. Already eight calls have been secured for 2003 including three new operators and we will welcome back Seabourne and Silversea Cruises."

Catherine O’Connor, Manager of the Derry Visitor and Convention Bureau, added: “Each year we see an increasing number of tourists visiting our city and the region and it is a confidence boost to the region that so many cruise new operators are considering the region." (MB)